Communities of accountability have a way of intersecting.
The same people often appear in different communities to which we are accountable. A person may play a key role in one community and stand on the periphery of others. Or a person may hold a key place in several communities.
Make rosters of my communities of accountability and you will find Merdine T. Morris on many of those lists. A few years ago, I described her in these words:
Merdine T. and I have been friends for more than 20 years. Friend really does not do our relationship justice, she is my mentor, teacher, challenger, comforter, disturber of my peace, guide, anchor . . . the list goes on.
Today I add, Merdine T. Morris is practically a one person community of accountability for me.
Three years ago, Merdine T.’s health failed and I reflected on what I thought might be our last visit.
Merdine T. recovered.
On Tuesday, Tricia, Eric and I went to see her. We arrived and told the receptionist we wanted to visit Merdine T. She paused a moment and said, “I don’t think Merdine T. is here.”
She checked a list and informed us that Merdine T. had gone to lunch with a group. On the one hand, this was disappointing. On the other, it was great, good news.
I carry Merdine T. in my heart and head and will always do so. But I give thanks to know that she can get out and around.
And I need to try to see her again before I leave for New York.
See you along the Trail.
